Courts and safety
Who handles reporting a car crash that is not an emergency?
Who handles it
The local police department where the crash happened takes the report. In some states you must also file your own crash report with the state motor vehicle agency.
- Not Federal
- State
- Local
Facts checked November 5, 2026 · 3 sources
Why state and local government
Local police take reports in their area. State motor vehicle agencies keep driving records, and some post reported crashes to them.
What to do next
- If anyone is in danger, call 911.
- Contact the local police department where the crash happened and ask how to report it. Many have a non-emergency phone line or online system.
- Check your state motor vehicle agency’s website to see if you must file your own report and by when.
In your state
Find your state’s official offices on our state pages.
What varies
Some states require drivers to file their own report even when police file one, and rules can depend on whether police came to the scene.
Learn the background: What is the difference between a sheriff, a police chief and a district attorney?
Sources
Official recordUSAGov: Report a crime